The new building features modern equipment in CNC machining, state-of-the-art robotics, automation, metrology, mechatronics, EDM, 3D printing, and welding to support the needs of local manufacturing employers.

To encourage innovation, tinkering, and problem-solving skills beyond the classroom, the MTEC boasts a makerspace where students and the community can interact with desktop CNC milling machines, 3D printers, hand tools, and fabricating tools, some of which were donated from proceeds from the Miles For Manufacturing (M4M) 5K Run/Walk at IMTS 2018. 

“Thanks in part to the sponsors and runners of the M4M event at IMTS 2018, students and those from the South Side of Chicago community can experience the manufacturing technology classroom of the future ... today,” said Greg Jones, Vice President of Smartforce Development for AMT – The Association For Manufacturing Technology, the owner and operator of IMTS. Greg spearheads the Smartforce Student Summit at IMTS, which gives students the opportunity to experience the variety of careers available in manufacturing technology.

The linear flow of the manufacturing process inspired architects, JGMA and Cannon Design, to form a long, transparent 48,000-square-foot building that celebrates the manufacturing industry by showcasing the machines, equipment, and technology integral to the college's learning objective.

“The Manufacturing Technology and Engineering Center will be the paradigm for students working toward a relevant education that opens doors to not just get a job, but find a career,” said Mayor Rahm Emanuel. 

The MTEC includes equipment from Haas Automation, robots and cobots from FANUC, automated robots with welding end effectors from Lincoln Electric Welding, CMMs from Carl Zeiss Industrial Metrology, EDM equipment from Mitsubishi, and measuring equipment from Mitutoyo and The L.S. Starrett Company.

Association of Professional Model Makers
Spring 2019 Newsletter